How Universal Credit is paid

You’ll get a single payment every month to cover your living costs. This will be paid directly into your bank, building society or credit union account. If you don’t have a bank account you’ll need to open one - an adviser at your nearest Citizens Advice can help.

If you make a joint claim as a couple, you’ll get a single payment for both of you.

If you’re in debt or behind on your rent payments, you can ask to be paid more often - this is called an ‘alternative payment arrangement’.

When you'll be paid

After you apply it’ll usually take 5 or 6 weeks to get your first Universal Credit payment.

After your first Universal Credit payment, you’ll be paid monthly.

If you pay rent or have a mortgage and you think a payment will be late because you’re waiting to be paid, you should talk to your landlord or mortgage lender and explain.